Sure, here’s an article on fertilizer schedule for orange crop.
When it comes to producing a successful orange crop, proper fertilization is key. Orange trees are heavy feeders, so scheduling an appropriate fertilizer regimen is essential. By providing the necessary nutrients, you can optimize the tree’s health, promote root growth, and ensure a bountiful harvest year after year.
Below is a schedule outlining a basic fertilizer program for orange crops. However, depending on your location, soil type, and other variables, adjustments may be necessary.
The first application of fertilizer should take place in late winter or early spring, just before the start of the growing season. This is the time when the tree will begin to break dormancy and actively grow. Apply a balanced fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 blend, or a citrus-specific fertilizer with a similar NPK ratio. Use about one pound of fertilizer for every year of the tree’s age, up to a maximum of 10 pounds per tree.
The next application of fertilizer should take place in May or June, just after the tree has set fruit. Use the same type of fertilizer as before, but at a reduced rate of about half a pound per year of the tree’s age.
In August or September, apply a third round of fertilizer. Use a citrus-specific fertilizer that contains more phosphorus and potassium than nitrogen, such as a 0-10-10 blend. This will help promote strong root growth and prepare the tree for the winter. Use the same reduced rate as the second application.
Finally, in November or December, apply a fourth round of fertilizer. This time, use a balanced fertilizer with a similar NPK ratio as the first application. Apply at the same reduced rate of half a pound per year of the tree’s age.
In addition to these scheduled applications, it’s important to monitor the tree’s growth and adjust the fertilizer regimen accordingly. If the tree appears to be lacking in certain nutrients, you may need to apply supplementary fertilizers or adjust the timing and amount of the scheduled applications.
Remember to always water the tree deeply after fertilization to ensure that the nutrients penetrate deep into the root zone. With proper fertilization, your orange crop can thrive for years to come.